US-based Middle West Spirits has appointed Luis Gonzalez as CCO following its acquisition of Old Elk Distillery in May, where Gonzalez previously served as CEO.
Gonzalez (below) will oversee commercial strategy, operations and marketing at the Ohio-headquartered business. Middle West did not immediately disclose who Gonzalez is replacing but added that he will help expand the company’s contract distillation programme into international markets.
Gonzalez led Old Elk for more than seven years. Under his leadership, the Colorado-based distillery “expanded its custom mashbill programme” and introduced innovations such as its Signature High-Malt Bourbon and the Cask Finish Series.
Founded in 2008, Middle West claims to be Ohio’s largest distillery. Its portfolio includes Middle West Bourbon, OYO Vodka, Vim & Petal Gin, Lux & Umbra and – since earlier this year – Old Elk’s portfolio.
Earlier this month, a dispute between the founders of American whiskey company Uncle Nearest and a creditor led to the business switching to neutral control, according to local reports.
